Historic find dates back to the Romans

Archaeologists have unearthed a ‘significant’ find, thought to be the remains of a Roman villa complex.

They were called to the site in Manton Lane, Bedford, after builders discovered a preserved section of an historical wall.

The discovery was made during the construction of a care home on land next to Bedford Modern School.

Investigations are ongoing but evidence suggests that the wall dates back to the Roman period AD43-410.

Roman roofing tiles, floor tiles and pottery have also been recovered from the site.

A geophysical survey undertaken immediately adjacent to the site suggests that the building could have formed part of a possible Roman villa complex.

A more detailed survey will be conducted in the near future which should help the archaeologists better understand the nature of the site.

Jeremy Oetgen a project manager for Albion Archaeology, which is working on the site, said: “The early indications are that this is a very significant find and it is certainly something. Other ruins unearthed in Bedford have mainly been farm houses and although it is not certain, there’s a possibility that this could have been a Roman villa.”

Dave Hodgson, Mayor of Bedford Borough, said: “This was a completely unexpected but important discovery.

“The ruins have now been carefully taken away to protect them and for further investigations.

“A more detailed survey will be carried out to unlock more of the secrets on the site.”